The information provided here is meant to give you a general idea about each of the medications listed below. Only the most general side effects are included, so ask your doctor if you need to take any special precautions. Use each of these medications as recommended by your doctor, or according to the instructions provided.

Medications may be recommended as a part of treatment to help manage withdrawal symptoms, decrease pleasure associated with drinking, create negative physical symptoms like nausea after drinking, or to help manage related psychological conditions. Medications are usually prescribed alongside counseling or other psychosocial treatment. AUD is also usually treated with a combination of medications, rather than just one medication. Treatment will vary on a case-by-case basis. Contact your doctor if you have further questions about usage or side effects

Prescription Medications for AUD

Prescription Medications for AUD

Adjunct Therapy

Common name—naltrexone

Naltrexone is used to help you to stay away from alcohol, but it is not a cure for addiction. It may work by blocking the high that makes you crave alcohol. However, it will not, prevent you from experiencing the effects of alcohol. Naltrexone is available as a pill and an injection in the muscle.

Disulfiram helps you overcome your drinking problem by making you very sick if you drink alcohol. However, it is not a cure for addiction. While you take this medication, and for at least 12 hours before you begin taking it, you should not drink even the smallest amount of alcohol. You should not use any foods, products, or medications that contain alcohol, nor should you come into contact with any chemicals that contain alcohol while using this medication.

If you have been diagnosed with heart disease or
schizophrenia, talk to your doctor before taking this medication. Do not take this medication if you are allergic to disulfiram.

If you use alcohol while taking this medication, you may experience some of the following symptoms:

Nausea and vomiting

Chest pain

Lightheadedness, which may lead to fainting

Sweating and flushing

Difficulty breathing

Confusion

Weakness

Rapid heart beat

Drowsiness

If you experience mild reactions, you will most likely recover completely. However, reactions may worsen leading to breathing problems, heart problems, seizure, unconsciousness, and possibly death. Symptoms will last from 30 minutes to several hours.
If you have mild or moderate reactions, see a doctor for help. If you experience severe reactions, call for emergency medical services right away.

Acamprosate

Acamprosate reduces your craving for alcohol by inhibiting a chemical in your brain called gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA). Several studies have indicated that it may help you remain abstinent.

Benzodiazepines are anti-anxiety drugs that may be used to relieve withdrawal symptoms of alcoholism and reduce the risk of
seizures. These drugs produce a sedative effect. Benzodiazepines are usually not used for long periods of time because they can lead to dependence and may cause withdrawal symptoms when discontinued.

Possible side effects include:

Drowsiness

Lightheadedness

Special Considerations

Contact your doctor if your medication does not seem to be working after the allotted period of time or if you have any side effects that are troublesome or persistent.

If you are taking medications, follow these general guidelines:

Take your medication as directed. Do not change the amount or the schedule.

Ask what side effects could occur. Discuss them with your doctor.

Talk to your doctor before you stop taking the medication.

Plan ahead for refills if you need them.

Do not share your medication with anyone.

Drugs can be dangerous when mixed. Talk to your doctor if you are taking more than one drug, including over-the-counter products and supplements.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Antidepressant use in children, adolescents, and adults. US Food and Drug Administration website. Available at:
http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/InformationbyDrugClass/UCM096273.
Updated December 23, 2014. Accessed April 10, 2015.